mrsperky If the sand is just decorative (not for kids to play in) you can cover it with chicken wire or a plastic mesh, then put another half inch or so of sand on top to make the mesh invisible. This will keep cats from scratching in it. Works for flowerbeds...

lefty47 HI -- Even if you think the cats in your area are well behaved , they will use it as a bathroom . They love sand and fresh dirt flower beds. I heard if you lay a big rubber snake near , they won't come near. But you have to move it around everyday or so because they figure it out over time. That's a cute area you have.